Daikon Radish

Daikon radish (Raphanus sativus) is a root vegetable that has gained popularity as a cover crop, soil conditioner, and wildlife food source. Known for its deep taproot, daikon radish is effective at breaking up compacted soils, improving soil structure, and increasing water infiltration. Its large, edible roots are highly attractive to wildlife such as deer, turkey, and small mammals, providing a nutritious food source during the fall and winter months.

Benefits for Wildlife Habitat

✔ Highly nutritious roots that attract deer, turkey, and small game during the cooler months.
✔ Fast-growing and offers early-season forage before other food sources become available.
✔ Improves soil health by breaking up compacted soils with its deep taproot, increasing water infiltration and reducing erosion.
✔ Pollinator-friendly with small flowers that attract beneficial insects during the growing season.
✔ Can be left to decompose over winter, enriching the soil with organic matter.

Planting Guidelines

• Planting Times:

  • Late Summer to Early Fall (July–September): Best time for planting daikon radish to ensure optimal growth before the first frost.
  • Spring (March–April): In warmer climates, it can be planted as an early spring cover crop or wildlife forage.

• Seeding Depth:

  • ½ to 1 inch deep for optimal seed-to-soil contact and even germination.

• Seeding Rates:

  • Drilled: 8–10 lbs per acre for uniform spacing and even growth.
  • Broadcast: 12–15 lbs per acre, followed by light dragging or cultipacking to ensure proper seed-to-soil contact.

• Days to Maturity:

  • 60–90 days to full maturity, with roots typically reaching full size in late fall or early winter.

• Drought Tolerance:

  • Moderate – Daikon radishes require adequate moisture for optimal root growth, but their deep roots help them tolerate periods of dryness once established.

• Saturated Soil Tolerance:

  • Moderate – While daikon radish is somewhat tolerant of wet conditions, it prefers well-drained soils and can struggle with prolonged waterlogging.

• Shade Tolerance:

  • Low – Daikon radish performs best in full sun, where it can achieve maximum root size and growth.

Fertilization Guidelines for Daikon Radish

• Soil pH: Prefers slightly acidic to neutral soils with a pH range of 6.0–7.0.
• Nitrogen (N): Daikon radish generally requires low to moderate nitrogen levels, especially when used as a cover crop or soil amendment. Excess nitrogen can promote leaf growth at the expense of root development.
• Phosphorus (P): Apply 20–40 lbs P₂O₅ per acre if soil tests show low phosphorus levels, especially to support root development and early growth.
• Potassium (K): Apply 30–50 lbs K₂O per acre if soil potassium is deficient, as it supports overall plant health and root development.

Fertilization Timing:

• Apply phosphorus and potassium before planting based on soil tests.
• Minimal nitrogen is needed, especially if daikon radishes are being used as a cover crop or soil amendment.

Herbicide Use for Daikon Radish

• Weed Management:

  • Weed control is important during the early establishment phase to ensure daikon radishes are not outcompeted by aggressive weeds.

• Herbicide Options:

  • Pre-emergence: Herbicides like Pendimethalin (Prowl) or Trifluralin (Treflan) can be used before planting to control grass and broadleaf weeds.
  • Post-emergence: 2,4-D can be used to control broadleaf weeds once daikon radish is established.

Key Considerations:

• Follow all herbicide labels carefully to avoid damage to daikon radishes, especially during early growth.